Course Overview
Information and Communications Technology commonly abbreviated as ICT is often used as an extended similar term for information technology (IT). However it is broader in scope and encompasses computer hardware & software, television, radio, cellular phones, satellite devices among many other related communication systems. Simply put, it refers to all the technology used to handle telecommunications, audiovisual processing and transmission systems, intelligent building management systems, broadcast media as well as network-based control and monitoring functions. ICT also includes other applications and services associated with the above mentioned systems such as distance learning and videoconferencing facilities. The application of ICT is wide and varied and is commonly used in the media, information technology (IT), telecommunications among other sectors. Professionals in this field may be referred to as ICT specialists, network administrators, database administrators among other titles. The work of ICT specialists entails designing, maintaining, and servicing systems used to store, retrieve and send information or data.
The Bachelor of Science in Information and Communication Technology is a four year course that is indented to provide quality technical education and training in the field of information and communication Technology and produce manpower capable of delivering professional service to the public as well as private sector and be able to promote entrepreneurship, research and innovation for industrial and technological development. Students of the course will be equipped with solid knowledge and skills in IT applications, networking, Information and Communications Technologies (ICT) as well as competence in applying practical solutions across the entire ICT spectrum. Upon successful completion of the course, graduates will be well rounded and equipped with adequate skills in ICT program design, application development, systems analysis and implementation of ICT technologies among other related fields. In addition, graduates of the course shall have the necessary competence to work in public and private sector as well as being able to venture into entrepreneurship.
Entry requirement
For self sponsored students, at least a mean grade of C+ in KCSE. For Government sponsored students, the minimum cut point which is announced annually applies. The students should in addition have good performance in the following cluster Subjects; Subject 1 MAT A, Subject 2 PHY, Subject 3 CHE, Subject 4 BIO or any GROUP III or any GROUP IV or any GROUP V.
Becoming an ICT Specialist
If you are passionate about computers, are technologically inclined and interested in a career that can enable you work within the entire ICT spectrum, then pursuing this course might be a good choice for you. In addition, you should be prepared to develop skills that can enable you grow and succeed in this profession.
ICT specialists have got excellent analytical skills that enable them analyze system problems, consider ways to solve the problems identified and select the best way possible to solve ICT related problems. They are also good communicators able to explain their work to top executives and give clear instructions to their subordinates ensuring the work is done to perfection. ICT specialists are also good decision makers as they must make important decisions about how to allocate their organizations’ resources in order to reach their goals sustainably.
Good leadership skills are very crucial in this field as ICT specialists must be able to lead and motivate ICT teams or departments so that workers are efficient and effective in service delivery. They also need to be well organized as they must coordinate the work of several different ICT departments to make the organization run efficiently and within budget. Good interpersonal skills are equally important to ensure that these professionals create good working relationships with other workers and clients at large.
Technical skills are a must have as ICT field itself is a technical subject which requires mastery of the top skills in the profession, professionals in this field must therefore understand the principles, concepts and techniques associated with the technology of computers and digital communication systems; they should also identify and handle social, legal and ethical issues in relation to software development and use. IT is ever evolving; professionals in this field must also be flexible to cope with rapid changes in technology, as IT is ever changing
Work environment.
ICT specialists mostly work in offices and other time visiting their clients to offer ICT solutions.
Career opportunities
Graduates of this course may find work in both the public and private sectors. Some areas of employment include; broadcast media, digital media, telecommunications, financial services, property markets, business services, retail industry, manufacturing, tourism, healthcare, transport, primary ICT sector. Graduates can also use skills acquired from the university and start their own businesses.
You may explore these courses
Bachelor of Information Technology
Bachelor of Technology in Communication and Computer Networks
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Bachelor of Science in Applied Computer Science
Bachelor of Science in Informatics
Bachelor of Technology in Computer Technology
Bachelor of Science in Telecommunication and Information Engineering